Follow your pregnancy journey with our week-by-week guide. Learn about your baby’s development, changes in your body, and tips for each stage of pregnancy.
Week-by-Week Pregnancy Guide: Track Your Baby’s Growth and Changes
First Trimester: Weeks 1-12
Week 1-2: Conception and Early Development
Title: Weeks 1-2 of Pregnancy: Preparing for Conception
During the first two weeks, your body is preparing for ovulation and fertilization. While you’re not technically pregnant yet, this is a crucial time for conception. Track your ovulation cycle and start taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid to support early development.
Key Points:
- Focus on a healthy diet and lifestyle.
- Begin prenatal vitamins.
- Track ovulation if planning to conceive.
Week 3: Fertilization and Implantation
Title: Week 3 of Pregnancy: Fertilization and Implantation
This week, fertilization occurs as the sperm meets the egg. The fertilized egg travels down the fallopian tube and implants into the uterine lining. You may not feel any symptoms yet, but your body is already working hard to support the pregnancy.
Key Points:
- Implantation may cause light spotting.
- Hormonal changes begin.
Week 4: Positive Pregnancy Test
Title: Week 4 of Pregnancy: Confirming Your Pregnancy
By week 4, you may be able to confirm your pregnancy with a home test. The embryo is now forming, and the placenta begins to develop. Early pregnancy symptoms like fatigue, mild cramping, and breast tenderness may appear.
Key Points:
- Take a home pregnancy test.
- Schedule your first prenatal appointment.
- Watch for early symptoms like nausea or fatigue.
Week 5: Baby’s Heartbeat Begins
Title: Week 5 of Pregnancy: Your Baby’s Heartbeat Starts
Your baby’s heart is beginning to form and may start beating this week. The neural tube, which will become the brain and spinal cord, is also developing. You might experience morning sickness or mood swings due to rising hormone levels.
Key Points:
- The embryo is the size of a sesame seed.
- Morning sickness may begin.
- Stay hydrated and eat small, frequent meals.
Week 6: Rapid Growth
Title: Week 6 of Pregnancy: Rapid Development
Your baby’s facial features, such as eyes and nostrils, are starting to form. The heart is beating steadily, and tiny limb buds are appearing. You may feel more fatigued and experience food aversions or cravings.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a lentil.
- Fatigue and nausea are common.
- Continue taking prenatal vitamins.
Week 7: Brain Development
Title: Week 7 of Pregnancy: Brain Growth and Development
Your baby’s brain is growing rapidly, and the arms and legs are becoming more defined. You might notice increased pregnancy symptoms like bloating, frequent urination, or mood swings.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a blueberry.
- Hormonal changes may cause mood swings.
- Stay active with light exercises like walking.
Week 8: Moving and Growing
Title: Week 8 of Pregnancy: Baby’s First Movements
Your baby is now moving, though you won’t feel it yet. The fingers and toes are forming, and the tail is disappearing. Morning sickness may peak this week, so focus on staying hydrated and eating small meals.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a raspberry.
- Morning sickness may be intense.
- Rest and listen to your body.
Week 9: Major Milestones
Title: Week 9 of Pregnancy: Major Developmental Milestones
Your baby’s essential organs, like the heart, brain, and kidneys, are fully formed and starting to function. The eyes are now visible, and the baby is losing its tail. You may notice your clothes feeling tighter as your uterus expands.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a cherry.
- Organs are functioning.
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing.
Week 10: End of the Embryonic Stage
Title: Week 10 of Pregnancy: Embryo to Fetus Transition
Your baby is now a fetus! All major organs are in place, and the baby is starting to look more human. You may feel relief from some early symptoms, but others, like heartburn or constipation, may begin.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a strawberry.
- Early symptoms may ease.
- Stay hydrated and eat fiber-rich foods.
Week 11: Growth Spurt
Title: Week 11 of Pregnancy: Baby’s Growth Spurt
Your baby is growing rapidly, and the bones are beginning to harden. You might notice your energy levels improving, but mood swings and food cravings may continue.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a lime.
- Energy levels may increase.
- Continue with prenatal checkups.
Week 12: First Trimester Ends
Title: Week 12 of Pregnancy: End of the First Trimester
Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of the first trimester. Your baby’s reflexes are developing, and the risk of miscarriage decreases significantly. You may start to show, and your energy levels may return.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a plum.
- Risk of miscarriage drops.
- Share the news with family and friends.
Second Trimester: Weeks 13-26
Week 13: Hello, Second Trimester!
Title: Week 13: Welcome to the Second Trimester!
Congratulations, you’ve made it to the second trimester! Many mums find this to be the most enjoyable phase of pregnancy. Your energy is returning, and morning sickness may start to fade. Your baby is now the size of a lemon and is developing vocal cords and tiny fingerprints.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a lemon.
- Morning sickness may ease.
- You might start to show.
Midnight Mum Tip: Treat yourself to some comfy maternity clothes—you’ve earned it!
Week 14: Baby’s Movements Begin
Title: Week 14: Baby is on the Move!
Your baby is now moving around, though you probably won’t feel it yet. The tiny muscles are developing, and your baby can make facial expressions. You might notice your skin glowing as your body adjusts to pregnancy hormones.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a peach.
- Movements are happening, but you can’t feel them yet.
- Your skin may look radiant.
Midnight Mum Tip: If you’re up late, try talking or singing to your baby—they can hear your voice now!
Week 15: Baby’s Senses Develop
Title: Week 15: Baby’s Senses are Coming to Life
Your baby’s senses are developing rapidly. They can sense light, even though their eyes are still closed, and their taste buds are forming. You might start to feel less tired and more like yourself again.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of an apple.
- Taste buds and light sensitivity are developing.
- Energy levels are improving.
Midnight Mum Tip: If you’re craving a midnight snack, go for something healthy like yogurt or fruit.
Week 16: Gender Reveal Time!
Title: Week 16: Is It a Boy or a Girl?
This week, you might be able to find out your baby’s gender during an ultrasound. Your baby is now the size of an avocado and is growing hair, eyelashes, and eyebrows. You might also start to feel those first flutters of movement!
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of an avocado.
- Gender may be visible on ultrasound.
- You might feel baby’s first movements.
Midnight Mum Tip: If you’re planning a gender reveal, now’s the time to start thinking about it!
Week 17: Baby’s Fat Stores Build
Title: Week 17: Baby is Building Fat Stores
Your baby is starting to develop fat stores, which will help regulate their body temperature after birth. You might notice your appetite increasing as your baby grows.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a pomegranate.
- Fat stores are developing.
- Your appetite may increase.
Midnight Mum Tip: Keep healthy snacks on hand for those late-night cravings.
Week 18: Baby’s Hearing Improves
Title: Week 18: Baby Can Hear Your Voice!
Your baby’s hearing is improving, and they can now hear your heartbeat and voice. You might feel more pronounced movements, like kicks and rolls.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a bell pepper.
- Hearing is developing.
- Movements are becoming stronger.
Midnight Mum Tip: Play some soothing music or read a book aloud—your baby can hear you!
Week 19: Baby’s Protective Coating
Title: Week 19: Baby is Covered in Vernix
Your baby is now covered in a protective coating called vernix, which keeps their skin soft and protected. You might notice your belly growing rapidly, and backaches could start to become more common.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a mango.
- Vernix protects baby’s skin.
- Your belly is growing quickly.
Midnight Mum Tip: Use a pregnancy pillow to support your back and belly while sleeping.
Week 20: Halfway There!
Title: Week 20: You’re Halfway Through Your Pregnancy!
Congratulations, you’re halfway there! Your baby is now the size of a banana and is swallowing and digesting amniotic fluid. You might feel more frequent movements, and your partner may even be able to feel them too.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a banana.
- Movements are more noticeable.
- You’re halfway through your pregnancy!
Midnight Mum Tip: Celebrate this milestone with a relaxing evening or a small treat.
Week 21: Baby’s Taste Buds Develop
Title: Week 21: Baby is Developing Taste Buds
Your baby’s taste buds are fully formed, and they can taste the amniotic fluid. You might notice your appetite increasing as your baby grows.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a carrot.
- Taste buds are fully developed.
- Your appetite may increase.
Midnight Mum Tip: Experiment with new flavors—your baby might develop a preference for them!
Week 22: Baby’s Sense of Touch
Title: Week 22: Baby is Exploring with Touch
Your baby’s sense of touch is developing, and they might start exploring their face and body. You might notice more defined movements, like kicks and punches.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a papaya.
- Sense of touch is developing.
- Movements are more defined.
Midnight Mum Tip: If you’re up late, try gently pressing on your belly—your baby might respond with a kick!
Week 23: Baby’s Hearing is Fully Developed
Title: Week 23: Baby Can Hear the Outside World
Your baby’s hearing is now fully developed, and they can hear sounds from the outside world. You might notice more regular patterns in their movements.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a grapefruit.
- Hearing is fully developed.
- Movement patterns are becoming regular.
Midnight Mum Tip: Talk to your baby often—they love hearing your voice!
Week 24: Viability Milestone
Title: Week 24: Baby is Now Viable!
Your baby has reached the viability milestone, meaning they have a chance of survival outside the womb with medical help. Your baby is now the size of an ear of corn and is gaining weight rapidly.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of an ear of corn.
- Baby is now viable.
- Weight gain is accelerating.
Midnight Mum Tip: If you’re feeling anxious, remind yourself how far you’ve come—you’re doing amazing!
Week 25: Baby’s Lung Development
Title: Week 25: Baby’s Lungs are Developing
Your baby’s lungs are developing rapidly, and they’re practicing breathing movements. You might notice more frequent and stronger kicks.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a rutabaga.
- Lungs are developing.
- Kicks are stronger and more frequent.
Midnight Mum Tip: If baby’s kicks are keeping you up, try changing positions or having a light snack.
Week 26: Baby’s Eyes Open
Title: Week 26: Baby’s Eyes are Opening!
Your baby’s eyes are now opening, and they can blink. You might notice more defined sleep and wake cycles.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a scallion.
- Eyes are opening and blinking.
- Sleep and wake cycles are becoming regular.
Midnight Mum Tip: If you’re up late, try to rest when your baby is resting.
Third Trimester: Weeks 27-40
Week 27: Welcome to the Third Trimester!
Title: Week 27: You’re in the Home Stretch!
Welcome to the third trimester! Your baby is now the size of a cauliflower and is growing rapidly. Their lungs are developing, and they’re practicing breathing movements. You might notice more frequent kicks and rolls as your baby gets stronger.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a cauliflower.
- Lungs are developing.
- Movements are stronger and more frequent.
Midnight Mum Tip: If baby’s kicks are keeping you up, try changing positions or having a light snack.
FAQ:
What should I eat during Week 27?
Focus on iron-rich foods like spinach, lentils and lean meats to support your baby’s growth.
Week 28: Baby’s Eyes Open
Title: Week 28: Baby’s Eyes are Opening!
Your baby’s eyes are now opening, and they can blink. They’re also developing more fat, which will help regulate their body temperature after birth. You might notice more defined sleep and wake cycles.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of an eggplant.
- Eyes are opening and blinking.
- Sleep and wake cycles are becoming regular.
Midnight Mum Tip: If you’re up late, try to rest when your baby is resting.
FAQ:
Why do I feel so tired in Week 28?
Your body is working hard to support your growing baby. Rest when you can and stay hydrated.
Week 29: Baby’s Brain Development
Title: Week 29: Baby’s Brain is Growing Rapidly
Your baby’s brain is developing rapidly, and they’re gaining more control over their movements. You might notice more defined patterns in their activity. Your belly is growing, and you might start to feel more uncomfortable as your baby takes up more space.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a butternut squash.
- Brain development is accelerating.
- Movements are more coordinated.
Midnight Mum Tip: Use a pregnancy pillow to support your growing belly and ease discomfort.
FAQ:
How can I relieve back pain in Week 29?
Try prenatal yoga, warm baths, or a supportive belly band.
Week 30: Baby’s Bone Marrow Development
Title: Week 30: Baby’s Bone Marrow is Taking Over
Your baby’s bone marrow is now producing red blood cells, which were previously made by your liver and spleen. Your baby is also gaining more fat, making their skin smoother. You might notice more Braxton Hicks contractions as your body prepares for labor.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a large cabbage.
- Bone marrow is producing red blood cells.
- Braxton Hicks contractions may increase.
Midnight Mum Tip: Stay hydrated to reduce the frequency of Braxton Hicks contractions.
FAQ:
Are Braxton Hicks contractions normal?
Yes, they’re your body’s way of preparing for labor. If they become painful or regular, contact your healthcare provider.
Week 31: Baby’s Senses are Sharpening
Title: Week 31: Baby’s Senses are Becoming More Acute
Your baby’s senses are sharpening, and they can now distinguish between light and dark. They’re also gaining more fat, which will help them regulate their body temperature after birth. You might notice more pressure on your bladder as your baby grows.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a coconut.
- Senses are becoming more acute.
- Pressure on your bladder may increase.
Midnight Mum Tip: Practice Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles.
FAQ:
How can I improve my sleep in Week 31?
Sleep on your side with a pillow between your legs for support.
Week 32: Baby’s Immune System Development
Title: Week 32: Baby’s Immune System is Developing
Your baby’s immune system is developing, and they’re receiving antibodies from you to help protect them after birth. Your baby is now the size of a jicama and is gaining weight rapidly. You might notice more swelling in your feet and ankles.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a jicama.
- Immune system is developing.
- Swelling in feet and ankles may increase.
Midnight Mum Tip: Elevate your feet when resting to reduce swelling.
FAQ:
Is swelling normal in Week 32?
Mild swelling is normal, but sudden or severe swelling could be a sign of preeclampsia. Contact your healthcare provider if you’re concerned.
Week 33: Baby’s Position
Title: Week 33: Baby is Getting into Position
Your baby is likely moving into the head-down position in preparation for birth. Their bones are hardening, but their skull remains soft to make delivery easier. You might notice more pressure on your pelvis as your baby settles into position.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a pineapple.
- Baby is moving into the head-down position.
- Pressure on your pelvis may increase.
Midnight Mum Tip: Practice gentle stretches or prenatal yoga to ease pelvic pressure.
FAQ:
What if my baby isn’t head-down by Week 33?
Don’t worry—some babies turn later. Your healthcare provider will monitor your baby’s position.
Week 34: Baby’s Nervous System Development
Title: Week 34: Baby’s Nervous System is Maturing
Your baby’s nervous system is maturing, and their lungs are almost fully developed. Your baby is now the size of a cantaloupe and is gaining about half a pound per week. You might notice more frequent Braxton Hicks contractions.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a cantaloupe.
- Nervous system is maturing.
- Braxton Hicks contractions may increase.
Midnight Mum Tip: Stay hydrated and rest when you can to manage contractions.
FAQ:
How can I tell the difference between Braxton Hicks and real labor contractions?
Real contractions are regular, increase in intensity, and don’t go away with rest or hydration.
Week 35: Baby’s Kidney Development
Title: Week 35: Baby’s Kidneys are Fully Developed
Your baby’s kidneys are now fully developed, and their liver is starting to process waste products. Your baby is the size of a honeydew melon and is gaining weight rapidly. You might notice more difficulty sleeping as your due date approaches.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a honeydew melon.
- Kidneys are fully developed.
- Sleep may become more difficult.
Midnight Mum Tip: Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to help you sleep.
FAQ:
What can I do to prepare for labor in Week 35?
Pack your hospital bag, finalize your birth plan, and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Week 36: Baby’s Digestive System Development
Title: Week 36: Baby’s Digestive System is Preparing for Birth
Your baby’s digestive system is preparing for life outside the womb. They’re also shedding the vernix and lanugo that protected their skin. Your baby is now the size of a papaya and is gaining about an ounce a day.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a papaya.
- Digestive system is preparing for birth.
- Vernix and lanugo are shedding.
Midnight Mum Tip: Take time to rest and relax—your body is working hard to prepare for birth.
FAQ:
What should I pack in my hospital bag?
Include essentials like comfortable clothes, toiletries, snacks, and baby items.
Week 37: Full-Term Baby
Title: Week 37: Your Baby is Now Considered Full-Term!
Congratulations, your baby is now considered full-term! They’re the size of a bunch of Swiss chard and are ready to meet you anytime. Your body is preparing for labor, and you might notice more frequent contractions or the loss of your mucus plug.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a bunch of Swiss chard.
- Baby is considered full-term.
- Labor could start anytime.
Midnight Mum Tip: Stay calm and trust your body—you’re ready for this!
FAQ:
What are the signs of labor?
Look for regular contractions, water breaking, or the loss of your mucus plug.
Week 38-40: The Final Countdown
Title: Weeks 38-40: The Final Countdown to Meeting Your Baby
You’re in the final stretch! Your baby is now the size of a watermelon and is fully developed. You might feel a mix of excitement and anxiety as you await labor. Remember, every pregnancy is different, and your baby will come when they’re ready.
Key Points:
- Baby is the size of a watermelon.
- Baby is fully developed and ready for birth.
- Labor could start at any time.
Midnight Mum Tip: Use this time to rest, relax, and prepare mentally for the arrival of your little one.
FAQ:
What if I go past my due date?
It’s common to go past your due date. Your healthcare provider will monitor you and discuss options if necessary.
How to Use Our Pregnancy Due Date Calculator
Wondering when you’ll get to meet your little bundle of joy? Our pregnancy due date calculator makes it easy!
Simply enter the date of your last period, along with the typical length of your menstrual cycle, then hit the calculator and In seconds, you’ll get an estimated due date for your baby’s arrival.
Baby Due Date Calculator
Enter the first day of your last period and your average cycle length to estimate your due date.
Just Found Out You’re Pregnant? Congratulations!
Working out your due date can feel overwhelming, but there’s no need to stress. Our easy-to-use calculator takes the guesswork out of it, giving you a clear idea of when to expect your new baby.
How Do You Calculate Your Baby’s Due Date?
Pregnancy typically lasts between 40 to 42 weeks, counted from the first day of your last period not from the day you miss your period, as some might think. This means that if you take a pregnancy test on the first day of a missed period, you’re already around four weeks pregnant.
How Do I Work Out How Many Weeks Pregnant I Am?
It can feel a little tricky to figure out how far along you are. Healthcare providers calculate pregnancy from the start of your last period, even though your baby’s actual gestational age is about two weeks younger than this date.
For example, if your doctor tells you that you’re four weeks pregnant, your baby has actually been developing for about two weeks. Understanding this difference can make it easier to track your pregnancy milestones.
Will My Baby Be Born on My Due Date?
While it’s exciting to have a due date, try not to focus too much on that exact day. Unless you’ve had fertility treatment and know the precise moment of conception, it’s impossible to know exactly when fertilisation occurred.
Think of your due date as an estimate, most babies arrive anytime between 37 and 42 weeks.
How Far Can You Pass Your Due Date?
Only 5% of babies are born on their estimated due date. The majority arrive within a two-week window either before or after the expected date.
Will My Due Date Change After a Scan?
Yes, it might. Your first pregnancy scan, known as the dating scan, usually happens between 10 and 14 weeks. This scan measures your baby’s size and development, providing a more accurate due date than calculations based solely on your last period.
Can I Plan My Due Date?
While many hope for a summer baby or a Christmas arrival, it’s nearly impossible to plan your due date. Pregnancy doesn’t always happen when you expect, and even if you conceive in your chosen month, only 4% of babies actually arrive on their due date.
Alternative Ways to Work Out Your Pregnancy Due Date
Most women ovulate and conceive about two weeks after their last period, meaning they are actually 38 weeks gestational age by the time they reach the 40-week mark.
While the dating scan is considered the most accurate way to determine your due date, there is a traditional method you can try:
- Take the first day of your last period.
- Add 7 days to that date.
- Add 9 months, and you’ll get your estimated due month.
However, while this method can give you a rough idea, it’s not as reliable as medical assessments like your dating scan.